Part 2:
Two days later on Wednesday 1/11/23 (31 weeks 5 days), the baby's heartbeat was no longer showing the normal variability, and the decision was made around 10 PM that he needed to be delivered by emergency C-Section. I was so afraid. First I called my husband to come back to the hospital, then I called Dena. They both arrived within 20 minutes of my calls. Although only my husband could be in the OR with me during the surgery, I wanted Dena there for comfort and support for me, my husband, and my mom. Everyone was really stressed and anxious, while also being hopeful and excited to meet the baby. Dena was already running on little sleep but she was amazing. After the delivery at 11:45 PM she stayed for hours and helped me to hand express colostrum for the baby. With her help we got a lot!
Her help early on with breastfeeding has been vital. The baby is in the NICU still and will be there for a total of 4-6 weeks. Because of Dena, I had the tools I needed to get my breastmilk flowing really well so that I can take it to the NICU daily for his feedings. It makes me feel so good that I can contribute to his health and wellness. I know that with the stressed state of mind I was in from the shock of the impending pre-term birth and hospital stay in general, I wouldn't have gotten off to as good a start without Dena.
Dena has been checking in on us since the delivery, given advice, and is available for my questions any time. She has offered to come help us open boxes of baby stuff, and also to come by the NICU to help with breast feeding when baby is ready to try (unfortunately only 3 people are allowed to visit the NICU over the whole course of his stay so me, my husband, and mom fill that quota already). I am looking forward to her coming to see us at home after the baby is discharged from the NICU!
I am so happy that we went with Dena. She is an amazing human and amazing doula. Highly recommend. 10 out of 10!
-Cierra McNair
January 22, 2023
Inner Nature
Birth Fee: $1000 to $3500
Postpartum Rate: $50 to $70